A chain-driven rotating shelf carousel formed by a plurality of pivoting shelves rotating within a continuous track disposed vertically within an upright cabinet storage unit is provided. Each shelf is attached to a chassis with leading and trailing arms terminating in cams positioned in the track which are driven by a series of sprockets. The shelves include engagement channels that enclose corresponding projections when the shelf moves into an access position generally aligned with an exterior door, such that when the exterior door is opened, the shelf can be accessed by a user.